Adrienne's Pizza Bar

Katie Heffernan

Citysearch

The Scene
This downtown gourmet pizza bar is far from the typical parlor. Crystal chandeliers, pearlescent walls, and vases of dry, twisting branches bring upscale elegance to the otherwise minimal space. The long, fluorescent-lit bar caters to single diners, while groups crowd the leather-backed banquettes and blonde wood tables. In the summer, financiers nab seats on the cobblestone street.

The Food
Contemporary Italian dishes match the restaurant's modern space. Starters include cheese samplers, salads and small plates, but it's the thin-crust pizza--in custom square pies at lunch and round specialties at dinner--that stands out. For a hearty creation, try the Toscana, topped with ribbons of prosciutto, chopped scallions and thick potato medallions. More traditionally bent entrees, such as creamy spinach and ricotta-stuffed shells, are delicate in a light marinara with chunks of tomato. For a twist, opt for the cannoli, a crisp waffle cone wrapped around thick whipped cream.